How DRG Payment Reform Shapes Inpatient Neurological Care in an Underdeveloped Region: Evidence from a Controlled Interrupted Time Series Study in Yunnan, China

The implementation of DRG-based payment reform in A City was associated with enhanced inpatient service efficiency in the Neurology Department, including improved case complexity management, shorter hospital stays, and reduced costs. However, medical equipment-related expenses remained unaffected, potentially due to increasing patient severity and ongoing technology investments. These findings offer valuable evidence for policymakers aiming to optimize hospital performance through payment system reform in resource-limited settings.